Water levels at San Roque Dam in San Manuel, Pangasinan, have risen more than 40 meters within just under two weeks, reaching 267.4 meters as of the latest reports. This surge comes in the wake of heavy rainfall caused by tropical cyclones “Luis” and “Maymay,” combined with the persistent influence of the southwest monsoon, known locally as habagat. The deluge has impacted Northern Luzon and the Cordilleras, leading to widespread flooding and disruption across several regions. The rise in water levels at the dam has raised concerns among local authorities and residents, particularly given the dam's role in providing hydroelectric power and irrigation for surrounding areas. Officials have been closely monitoring the situation to ensure that the structure remains stable and operational during this period of heightened rainfall. The increased volume of water has also prompted discussions about potential overflow risks, though no immediate threats to downstream communities have been reported. In response to the adverse weather conditions, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has allocated P177.67 million in agricultural inputs to assist farmers and fisherfolk affected by the habagat and the two tropical cyclones. These resources include rice, corn, and vegetable seeds, aimed at helping affected communities recover and resume farming activities. Additionally, the DA has arranged for the distribution of 1,007 bags of palay-milled rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) to local government units in La Union and Batanes. The DA has also initiated financial support mechanisms such as indemnification payments totaling P35.67 million for 5,005 insured farmers and fisherfolk through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC). Survival and Recovery (SURE) loans from the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) offer up to P25,000 per borrower, repayable over three years at zero interest. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to mitigate the economic impact of the weather-related disruptions on rural livelihoods. To address the challenges posed by the weather, the DA has implemented various measures to aid affected producers in transporting and selling their agricultural products. For instance, the DA Regional Field Office in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) has set up pop-up stores at SM Baguio to provide additional market outlets for affected producers. Meanwhile, DA Regional Field Office II is actively monitoring operations and exploring market opportunities at the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal (NVAT) to assist producers from CAR. Logistical support has also been mobilized, with the DA deploying KADIWA trucks to transport agricultural commodities and assistance to affected areas. Coordination with regional disaster risk reduction and management councils, local government units, and other relevant agencies ensures a comprehensive approach to responding to the impacts of the enhanced southwest monsoon and the two tropical cyclones. Ongoing surveillance of commodity prices and market flows aims to enhance consumer awareness and prevent price manipulation. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) reported that 13 flights were affected on Monday due to the inclement weather associated with the habagat. Of these, eight flights were diverted to alternative airports, while three faced missed approaches and two required go-around attempts. These disruptions highlight the broader impact of the weather conditions on transportation infrastructure and services, affecting both domestic and international travel schedules. As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the recent weather events, officials remain vigilant in their efforts to manage the situation effectively. Continued monitoring of the dam's water levels, alongside the provision of necessary support to affected communities, will be crucial in ensuring stability and recovery in the coming days.
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